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BeatKing, an influential rap producer and artist from Houston who contributed to Southern rap music, passed away at 39 on 15 August 2024. His death was confirmed by his manager Tasha Felder via an Instagram post.
Felder wrote:
“Today, Aug. 15, 2024, we have lost @clubgodzilla. BeatKing has been the best part of the club for over a decade. He has produced and worked with so many artists that his sound will forever live."
In a separate statement shared with People magazine, Felder confirmed that the reason for BeatKing's death was a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs). She added that earlier in the morning, the rapper fainted during a radio takeover and had to be taken to a hospital in Houston.
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Originally named Justin Riley on 24 November 1984, BeatKing rose to stardom as a key figure in Houston’s underground rap scene, earning him the title of ‘Club Godzilla’ due to the influence of his club bangers.
More about rapper BeatKing as he died due to pulmonary embolism
According to the statement given by Tasha Felder, the rapper had gone to an Urban One (Radio One) station in Houston when he passed out. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was admitted and later declared dead. His daughters were reportedly with him at the time of his demise.
BeatKing gained popularity in the summer of 2010 with the release of his album titled Kings of the Club, which turned out to be one of his best-selling works. In the subsequent years, he dropped other albums and mixtapes such as Club God (2011) and Club God 2 (2012).
Some of his most famous songs included Throw Dat, THICK with DJ Chose, and Then Leave with Queendom Come. His music, which often served as the soundtrack for parties and nightclubs, helped him garner a dedicated following in the Southern region and beyond.
During his career, Beatking collaborated with some renowned artists including 2 Chainz, Ludacris, Lil Jon, and Juicy J. Never Leave Houston on a Sunday – the last work by the Houston rapper was released on July 26, a few weeks before his death.
Manager Felder mentioned in her social media post that the rapper “loved his daughters, his music, and his fans." She emphasized that BeatKing's legacy would continue through his work and the impact he had on those around him. The fans and other musicians offered their condolences online.
The artist is survived by his two daughters and his partner.
